Update 33: Russia's war with Ukraine

The conflict in Ukraine appears further than ever from resolution, with the prospect of bitter urban fighting for Kherson city the next likely phase in a war that has included nuclear threats and mass atrocities. Russia’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu reportedly told western counterparts during telephone calls on 24 October that the war in Ukraine is heading for an “uncontrolled escalation” amid evidence that Russia’s grip on the city of Kherson appeared increasingly fragile. Russian missile attacks have continued across Ukraine, striking hydroelectric plants and other critical energy and water infrastructure. About 4 million people across Ukraine are being hit by power cuts from rolling blackouts due to Russia’s bombing campaign. Large parts of Kyiv were left without power or water.

Read more in the attached pdf on: the battle for Kherson; the attack on Russia’s Black Sea fleet; Russia’s temporary withdrawal from the UN-brokered grain deal; Russia’s ‘dirt bomb’ allegations and other disinformation; the global divide in public opinion about the war; stalled diplomacy; Western military and financial assistance to Ukraine, and Iranian and North Korean military support to Russia; the humanitarian consequences of the armed conflict; continuing concerns about the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station; the risk of nuclear weapon use; investigations into alleged war crimes; sanctions against Russia; energy security in Europe; and developments within Russia and NATO.

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